Jol plays down Johnson fears

MARTIN Jol has shrugged off suggestions that Andy Johnson is set to join West Ham.

The 30-year-old striker, who is in the final year of his contract at Craven Cottage , has been linked with a £2million move to Upton Park but Fulham boss Jol insists speculation is normal in the run up to the start of the new season.

“It’s always the same, there are so many players of course there is always interest," said Jol.

“The five or six you that you don’t know about it then you know about it and start talking about one player, but of course there’s always interest because we’ve got good players."

Johnson was in impressive form as Fulham eased past RNK Split on Thursday night, getting himself on the scoresheet before winning his side a penalty.

And Jol believes the former Everton hitman can become a vital part of his plans for the coming campaign - provided he remains injury-free.

“That is the way I always saw him when I was working in England," Jol said after the 2-0 victory.

“I have always thought he was a very good player and very lively. If he stays fit he is a terrific player for us."